The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has intensified its efforts to improve mobile network security, blocking more than 3.2 million SIM cards issued in the names of deceased individuals over the past year. The action forms part of a nationwide campaign aimed at reducing illegal SIM usage and strengthening the integrity of Pakistan’s telecom ecosystem.
According to an official document, the blocked SIMs were identified between July 2024 and June 2025. The initiative reflects growing concerns over the misuse of mobile connections for financial fraud, cybercrime, and other unlawful activities that often exploit unverified or improperly registered SIM cards.
The PTA carried out these actions in close coordination with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency. Together, the two institutions launched large-scale enforcement measures targeting the unauthorized issuance of both local and international SIMs across the country. Officials say this collaborative approach has significantly improved detection and response capabilities.
As part of the crackdown, authorities conducted 44 raids in 24 different cities, focusing on networks involved in SIM fraud. These operations led to the confiscation of more than 5,300 illegally issued SIMs. In addition, law enforcement seized 99 biometric verification devices and over 250,000 digital fingerprints that were being misused to bypass registration rules.
The enforcement drive also resulted in 71 arrests, highlighting the scale and organization of illegal SIM operations. Investigators noted that fraudulent SIM issuance often relies on stolen or recycled biometric data, which is then used to activate multiple connections without the knowledge of the rightful identity holders.
PTA officials say blocking SIMs registered to deceased individuals is a critical step in closing loopholes within the telecom system. Such SIMs are particularly vulnerable to misuse because they often remain active for years without verification, making them attractive for criminal purposes.
The authority has reiterated that biometric verification remains mandatory for SIM issuance and re-verification. Mobile users are also being encouraged to regularly check how many SIMs are registered against their CNICs and report any unauthorized numbers to their respective operators.
This campaign aligns with Pakistan’s broader digital security and cybercrime prevention strategy. With mobile connectivity playing a central role in banking, e-commerce, and digital governance, regulators view SIM security as a foundation for trust in digital services.
Industry observers believe these measures will help improve consumer confidence and reduce telecom-related fraud over time. However, they also stress the need for continued monitoring and public awareness to ensure long-term effectiveness.
The PTA has indicated that enforcement actions will continue, with further raids and verification drives planned in the coming months. The authority maintains that strict compliance with SIM registration rules is essential to ensuring a safer and more transparent digital environment for Pakistan’s growing mobile user base.
